AfriForum’s concerns about Lesufi’s Crime Wardens prove valid after arrest

AfriForum’s concern about the recruitment and vetting process for Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s so called “Crime Prevention Wardens” in Gauteng was justified this week after the arrest of one of these members. The arrest of a Crime Prevention Warden, for his alleged involvement in a staged kidnapping and robbery, underscores the lack of oversight and integrity of the programme.

AfriForum has repeatedly raised alarms about the hasty and dubious nature of the recruitment process for Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, given that allegations of corruption, irregularities and the inadequate vetting of candidates have marred this program from the start. This recent incident validates the civil rights organisation’s concerns and highlights the risks associated with the deployment of unqualified individuals as law enforcement agents, ultimately jeopardizing public safety.

“The fact that a warden – entrusted with protecting the community – has been implicated in a criminal scheme is not only troubling but also exposes the recklessness of Premier Lesufi’s actions. Instead of prioritising the safety and well-being of Gauteng’s residents and following proper procedures that would ensure the programme’s integrity, this initiative appears to have been rushed for political gain,” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety.

Premier Lesufi’s failure to implement rigorous background checks and training protocols for these wardens is a serious breach of public confidence. Unfortunately, the honest and dedicated individuals who form part of the Crime Warden programme have now also had their reputations damaged because of Lesufi’s political games. His lack of due diligence has created a system vulnerable to corruption, which now puts both citizens and the wardens themselves at risk.

“Public safety must never be compromised for political expediency. The brutal assault of a young man in Katlehong by wardens in August 2023 is a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by unaccountable and inadequately trained law enforcement officers,” says Broodryk.

AfriForum remains committed to ensuring accountability in public safety programmes and will continue to advocate for genuine, transparent, and effective crime prevention strategies in Gauteng.

Add your voice to the fight against corruption and mismanagement in Gauteng by visiting www.lesufimoetwaai.co.za and demanding Lesufi’s dismissal.